Medical blood test at home

Test your Omega-3 Index

Find out with a simple blood test whether you are optimally supplied. 97 % of people in Western countries are deficient — are you one of them?

Finger prick
11 fatty acids
Laboratory in Oslo
Results in 20 days

Here's how it works

1
Order the test kit Delivered in 3–5 working days directly to your door
2
Perform the finger prick Dried blood spot on filter card — takes 5 minutes
3
Send the sample for free Prepaid return envelope included
4
Results in 20–25 days 11 fatty acids available online with reference values

What is the Omega-3 Index?

The most important measure of your Omega-3 status — and most people have never heard of it.

The Omega-3 index measures the proportion of the long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in the total fatty acids of red blood cells (erythrocytes). It is expressed as a percentage and is considered a reliable biomarker for long-term Omega-3 status — similar to the HbA1c value for blood sugar.

TL;DR — The Key Points

  • The Omega-3 index measures EPA+DHA in red blood cells — it reflects your supply over the last 3–4 months, not your last meal.
  • Target value according to Dr William Harris (inventor of the index): 8–11%; the Western European average is only around 5–6%.
  • The single test costs €88, with the Pure Arctic Oil subscription approximately 25% cheaper (€63–66) — Laboratory: Vitas AS, Oslo (ISO 17025 accredited).
  • 11 fatty acids are analysed, results available online after 20–25 days; the finger prick at home takes approximately 5 minutes.

As red blood cells have a lifespan of approximately 120 days, the Omega-3 index does not reflect yesterday's meal but your supply over the past 3–4 months. This makes it a more meaningful marker than one-off blood serum measurements.

According to EFSA, EPA and DHA are recognised for normal heart function (from 250 mg/day), normal brain function and normal vision (from 250 mg DHA/day). The Omega-3 index gives you clarity on whether you reach these minimum values through your diet — or whether you should supplement.

Target value: 8–11%

Leading researchers such as Dr William Harris (inventor of the Omega-3 index) recommend a value between 8% and 11% as optimal. The average person in Western Europe achieves only approximately 5–6%. Values below 4% are considered unfavourable.

Omega-3 Index Scale

0% 4% 8% 11% 16%+
Below 4% — unfavourable
4–8% — room for improvement
8–11% — optimal
Above 11% — excellent

More on the science: Omega-3 Test Kit · Omega-3 Deficiency Check

How the test works

Simple, hygienic and completely from home — no doctor's appointment needed.

Step 1: Order the test kit

Order your test kit directly online. It will be delivered to your door in 3–5 working days. The set includes: lancet for the finger prick, filter card (DBS card), instructions and prepaid return envelope to the laboratory.

Step 2: Perform the finger prick

With the included single-use lancet, you briefly prick your fingertip. A few drops of blood on the filter card — done. The whole process takes approximately 5 minutes and is virtually painless. The instructions guide you through step by step.

Step 3: Results in 20–25 days

Send the sample free of charge to the Vitas AS laboratory in Oslo. After 20–25 days you will receive an email and can retrieve your complete result online: Omega-3 index, all 11 fatty acids individually, and a comparison with reference values.

What is measured?

A comprehensive fatty acid analysis — far more than just EPA and DHA.

Values analysed

  • Omega-3 Index (EPA + DHA in erythrocytes)
  • Omega-6/Omega-3 ratio
  • EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
  • DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
  • DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
  • Arachidonic acid (AA, Omega-6)

 

  • Linoleic acid (LA, Omega-6)
  • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, Omega-3)
  • Oleic acid (OA, Omega-9)
  • Palmitic acid (PA, saturated)
  • Stearic acid (SA, saturated)
  • Comparison with reference values

Laboratory: Vitas AS, Oslo

Analysis is carried out at the Vitas AS laboratory in Oslo (Norway) — one of Europe's leading specialist fatty acid laboratories. The laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 and works to internationally recognised analytical methods (gas chromatography). The result includes all values with personal reference ranges so you can interpret them directly.

Your options at a glance

Single test or with a subscription — both paths lead to your Omega-3 index.

One-time purchase

Single test

88

One-time payment · no further costs

  • Test kit with lancet and filter card
  • Laboratory analysis at Vitas AS Oslo
  • 11 fatty acids analysed
  • Online results in 20–25 days
  • Prepaid return envelope included
Order single test →

* Affiliate link. When you order, we receive a commission. Your price does not change.

Omega-3 tests compared

So you can make an informed decision — an honest overview of the available providers.

Provider Price Fatty acids Laboratory Wait time
Eqology €88 (€66 with subscription) 11 Vitas AS, Oslo 20–25 days
Zinzino BalanceTest €189 11 GMP laboratory 20–30 days
Norsan €71–89 26 Omegametrix 7–14 days
Omegametrix direct €85 24 Omegametrix 10 days

Our verdict

All four providers measure reliably. Eqology offers the best value for money with the subscription, as the test is combined with the high-quality Pure Arctic Oil — you test and optimise simultaneously. Those who want to measure more fatty acids and need a quick result will find a good alternative with Norsan or Omegametrix. Zinzino is comparatively more expensive.

Need help deciding?

Not sure which test or Omega-3 product suits you? Book a free 15-minute appointment and we will advise you personally — with no sales pressure.

Schedule appointment →

Free · Non-binding · 15 minutes · By video or phone

FAQ on the Omega-3 Index Test

How does the Omega-3 finger prick test work?

You prick your fingertip lightly with the included lancet and place a few drops of blood on a filter card (dried blood spot). You send this free of charge by post to the Vitas AS laboratory in Oslo. After 20–25 days you receive an email notification and can retrieve your result online. The entire process at home takes only approximately 5 minutes.

Can I order the Omega-3 test without a subscription?

Yes, the single test is available without a subscription for €88 and includes everything you need: test kit, laboratory analysis and online access to your results. Those who want to monitor their Omega-3 status regularly and take a high-quality Omega-3 oil at the same time save approximately 25% per test with the Pure Arctic Oil subscription (€63–66). The subscription can be cancelled monthly.

How long does the result take?

After your sample arrives at the Vitas AS laboratory, analysis takes approximately 20–25 days. You will receive an automatic email as soon as your personal report is available online. The result shows your Omega-3 index, all 11 fatty acids individually, and reference value ranges so you can interpret the figures directly.

What is a good Omega-3 index?

Leading researchers recommend an Omega-3 index between 8% and 11% as optimal. Values below 4% are considered unfavourable, 4–8% as having room for improvement. The average in Western Europe is approximately 5–6%, reflecting widespread deficiency. With targeted supplementation, the value can usually be improved significantly within 3–4 months.

What do I do with my result?

Your result clearly shows whether you are well supplied or need to act. With a low value, we recommend targeted supplementation with a high-quality Omega-3 oil. After 3–4 months, a follow-up test is worthwhile to measure progress. Unsure how to interpret your results? Book a free consultation.

Medical disclaimer

This page serves for general information only and does not replace medical advice. The Omega-3 index test is an information test for informed consumers, not a diagnostic instrument for diseases. All health claims are based on EFSA-approved health claims and published studies.

Not sure whether you need a test?

Try the free Omega-3 deficiency quick check first — 10 questions, 2 minutes, instant result.

Go to the free deficiency check →

Start now — know your Omega-3 status

A simple blood test. A clear result. A sound basis for your health decisions.

Order test → Free consultation

* Affiliate link. When you order, we receive a commission. Your price does not change.